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John Newbery opens a bookstore in London, publishing books for children that teach proper behavior without threatening them with fire and brimstone.
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Lewis Carroll publishes, a revolutionary book written purely for children’s pleasure, without moral lessons.
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Beatrix Potter publishes , marking a significant contribution to children’s literature.
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The first child labor laws are passed, freeing children to attend school and increasing the demand for children’s books.
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Macmillan establishes the first U.S. children’s book department, headed by Louise Bechtel Seaman.
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The John Newbery Medal is established by the American Library Association to honor outstanding children’s literature.
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The Randolph Caldecott Medal is introduced to recognize distinguished picture books.
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Public libraries expand, creating dedicated children’s reading rooms and increasing access to children’s literature.
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Harriet Rohmer establishes Children’s Book Press to publish bilingual picture books reflecting diverse cultural experiences.
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Just Us Books is founded to address the lack of diversity in children’s literature.
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The Orbis Pictus Award is established by the National Council of Teachers of English to honor outstanding nonfiction for children.
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The Michael L. Printz Award is introduced to recognize excellence in young adult literature.
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The Robert F. Sibert Award is created to honor outstanding informational books for children.
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The USBBY (United States Board on Books for Young People) begins publishing an annual list of Outstanding International Books.
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Shaun Tan wins the Astrid Lindgren Memorial Award, highlighting the global recognition of children’s literature.